Babies can have difficulty adjusting to the outside environment when they are born. They show this through crying, being stressed, and being unable to fall asleep. So, white noise might be an excellent solution for your baby. However, there is a certain misconception about its usage.
Many people are concerned about when to stop using white noise for baby. Therefore, I created this simple article so that you can learn all the essential information about using white noise. So, let’s get started!
When to Stop Using White Noise For Baby?
The short answer to this common question is once your child turns one or two years old. However, you can also use it until your child is four years old. In addition, at this age, your child can let you know if it wants to listen to white noise.
As you can see, there is no strict rule on when you should stop using it. It is all a personal choice and your baby’s needs. However, I must mention that you shouldn’t expose your infant to white noise every day. Also, the white noise mustn’t be placed too close to the child.
Continue to read and learn more about common mistakes you should avoid when using this tool for your baby. Also, I have included different examples of white noise you can use so your infant doesn’t get bored with only one sound. Now, let’s look at the possible benefits and negative effects of white noise!
Possible benefits of using white noise
White noise is a popular thing among many parents. This is because it comes with many possible benefits. Firstly, the white noise might make your baby fall asleep faster and improve sleep quality.
Secondly, it might be a good solution if you have an older child. I say this because older siblings tend to be loud. Again, your baby will need a more quiet space for sleeping. Therefore, white noise might affect this type of household noise.
Furthermore, the market offers white noise machines today thanks to advanced technology. Moreover, these machines have many great features; one is a heartbeat setting that can imitate the mother. So, your baby might feel safer when listening to white noise.
So, using white noise might be comforting for babies, especially newborns. Regarding the white noise machines, they are usually small. So, they can be pretty practical for usage. In addition, this is another benefit of using white noise. Continue to read and discover what the downsides of using white noise are.
Read more: When to Stop Using Bassinet?
Possible downsides of using white noise
Almost anything in our world comes with good and bad sides. Therefore, white noise is no exception. So, besides having several possible benefits, it also comes with some possible negative sides.
Firstly, your baby might become dependent on white noise machines. In addition, this can happen if you use the device whenever you want to put your baby to sleep. Moreover, it can also develop codependency if it is exposed to the machine for too long during the day.
Furthermore, this can cause more bedtime troubles. By this, I mean that your baby probably won’t go to bed if you don’t play white noise machine. Further below, you can read more about the common mistakes you should avoid when using white noise.
Regarding other possible negative sides, your baby may also dislike white noise. Again, it is important you don’t get discouraged. Just remember that all babies are different. However, don’t try to force the white noise machine if your baby doesn’t feel comfortable.
Lastly, white noise may interfere with the development of the infant. This usually refers to possibly damaging its hearing. So, you must be careful and not use the white noise machines too often.
What Should You Avoid While Using White Noise?
The first common mistake most parents make is not using white noise because their baby sleeps well. So, you should use white noise even if you think your baby doesn’t need it. This is because, over time, sleeping habits can change, and this may keep them balanced.
Secondly, avoid playing white noise too often. Moreover, you should incorporate it as part of your baby’s night routine. So during the day, allow your child to experience different sounds. Also, don’t use the white sound for every sleep.
Moreover, avoid using only one volume. The volume must be 100 to 120 decibels high if your child is crying. So, it should be as loud as your baby. On the other hand, it must be 60 to 70 decibels high if you are using it for sleeping.
In addition, don’t assume that all white noises are the same. There are low-pitch and high-pitch white noises. The first is more hypnotic and an excellent choice for the sleeping routine. On the contrary, high-pitch white noises are more intense and good for grabbing your baby’s attention.
Also read: When Do Babies Outgrow Swings?
Conclusion
In conclusion, white noise may be a great solution to help your baby stop crying and fall asleep a lot faster, and we hope you have learned when to stop using white noise for baby. To recap, you should stop using white noise once your baby is one or two years old. Moreover, there is no strict rule about the time.
Also, when using white noise, take into consideration several factors. This usually refers to the volume of the noise, the needs of your baby, the distance of the white noise from the crib, and similar. For practical usage, you can purchase a white noise machine.
The possible benefits of white noise and machines may not apply to all children. If your baby is struggling with bedtime problems or feeling much more stressed than usual, then you must consult its pediatrician.
